Skilled nursing operators are being directed to use creativity displayed by certified nursing assistants after new research found that it could lead to enhanced resident care.
University of Utah researchers came to that conclusion after analyzing data from six focus groups composed of CNAs at two LTC facilities. They asked the aides to describe how creativity relates to LTC caregiving, and what creativity means to CNAs working in the industry.
Creativity with LTC caregiving can be beneficial with discerning and responding to resident needs, time management, building teamwork and navigating challenges, study subjects said. They also defined creative as “formal art-making,” like art-based interventions for residents.
“Developing CNA‐centred interventions to promote creative caregiving may enhance both person‐centered LTC and CNA empowerment, improving resident care,” the authors concluded.
“CNA creativity should be viewed as a skill with the potential to enhance care and increase CNA empowerment. Interventions should be developed, in partnership with CNAs, to promote creative caregiving,” they added.
Study findings were published last week in the International Journal of Older People Nursing.
